Why Joshua Zirkzee’s move from Manchester United to Juventus could benefit everyone

When Manchester United signed Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna following an impressive 2023/24 campaign, expectations were understandably high. The Dutch striker scored 12 goals and registered six assists in 37 appearances, playing a key role in helping Bologna secure Champions League qualification.

United believed they had signed a forward capable of leading the line with a combination of physical strength, technical quality and consistent goalscoring. However, things have not gone according to plan.

A Difficult Spell at Old Trafford

Brought to the club by fellow Dutchman Erik ten Hag, Zirkzee arrived with plenty of promise but struggled to adapt to the demands of the Premier League.

While his hold-up play, close control and ability to bring teammates into attacking moves have been evident, the goals have failed to follow. Across 56 Premier League appearances, the 25-year-old has scored just five goals while contributing two assists.

His overall record improves slightly when domestic and European cup competitions are included, with four additional goals and one assist in 19 matches. Even so, his return has fallen well short of what Manchester United expected from their first-choice striker.

Juventus Leading the Race

A move away from Old Trafford now appears increasingly likely, with Juventus emerging as the favourites to sign the Netherlands international.

The Italian giants are looking to rebuild their attack following the departure of Dusan Vlahovic, while summer arrival Jonathan David has yet to make the desired impact in Turin.

Reports suggest Manchester United are prepared to sanction a season-long loan for the 2026/27 campaign, with an option to buy included rather than an obligation. Although that carries some risk for United, it may represent the best solution for all parties.

Limited Opportunities at United

With Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha all expected to be ahead of Zirkzee in the pecking order, regular first-team football at Old Trafford looks increasingly unlikely.

Rather than spending another season on the bench, a return to Serie A could offer the striker the chance to rebuild his confidence and rediscover the form that made him one of Italy’s most sought-after young forwards.

The Numbers Suggest Serie A Suits Him

Despite his struggles in England, Zirkzee’s performances during his final season with Bologna show why Juventus remain interested.

He completed more than 350 passes into the final third during the 2023/24 Serie A campaign and maintained an impressive success rate in advanced areas of the pitch. His creativity was equally impressive, producing 43 chances in the league—significantly more than he has managed during his time at Manchester United.

His willingness to carry the ball also remained consistent. Zirkzee attempted more than 350 one-on-one situations during both his final Serie A season and his spell in England, while recording an almost identical success rate.

Strengths That Still Make Him Valuable

Although goals have been difficult to come by, Zirkzee continues to offer qualities that many teams value highly.

His aerial ability remains one of his strongest assets, regularly winning duels and providing an effective outlet for teammates. He has also shown a solid defensive work rate, enjoying a high success rate when contesting tackles despite not being heavily involved out of possession.

Those attributes suggest the Dutchman still has plenty to offer in the right tactical system.

A Fresh Start Could Suit Everyone

Sometimes a transfer simply doesn’t work out, regardless of a player’s talent. That appears to be the case for Joshua Zirkzee at Manchester United.

A return to Serie A with Juventus could provide the ideal environment for the striker to revive his career, while giving United the opportunity to reshape their attack and potentially recover part of their investment.

For all involved, a move to Turin increasingly looks like the outcome that makes the most sense.